Shazia is a dynamic and visionary leader with over 25 years of experience at the forefront of insight, research, and inclusive strategy. A passionate collaborator and deeply curious qualitative researcher, she has spent her career helping agencies, brands, and organisations unlock meaningful human understanding.

Her career is defined by a powerful commitment to amplifying the experiences of under-represented communities. Through her consultancy, Mint Research, Shazia has become a trusted advisor in navigating the complexities of identity, culture, values, and belonging. Her work is grounded in empathy and cultural intelligence, making her especially skilled at engaging with niche and marginalised audiences across generations, ethnicities, and social backgrounds.

Shazia is also an elected Board Member of the Market Research Society (MRS),and a vocal champion for diversity and inclusion in research. Recognised as a ResearchHero (2022), an Insight 250 Global Winner (2023), and a Judge for MRS Annual Awards as well as MRS Diversity & Inclusion Changemaker Awards, she brings both credibility and conviction to everything she does.

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Mita Mistry is an award-winning columnist, published author, and Mindfulness Therapist renowned for her work in mental health and culturally sensitive wellbeing interventions. With over 20 years experience as a Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapist and Acupuncturist, Mita blends compassion with action, bringing a unique perspective that recognises the profound connection between mental wellness, physical activity, and social inclusion. Her approach ensures ASF’s programs are rooted in empathy, empowerment, and evidence-based well-being practices.

She is passionate about better and equal healthcare for all, dedicating her career to empowering individuals and groups to overcome challenges from trauma and anxiety to physical health issues. Mita’s expertise includes trauma-informed care and supporting diverse communities.

She is the author of How to Understand and Deal with Social Anxiety, All You Need Is Rest, and The Social Anxiety Workbook, Mita also hosts the Amazon-recommended podcast Healing Place and writes a popular newspaper column making her insights accessible to all.

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Harleen Kaur is a dynamic and accomplished Project Manager at the Asian Sports Foundation, leading impactful community sports programmes across diverse localities. A former elite martial artist turned community sports leader, Harleen brings both high-level athletic experience and a deep commitment to youth and community engagement.

A graduate in Sports Science, Harleen has successfully transitioned from competition to coaching and programme development. With over a decade of experience in martial arts including karate, kickboxing, and Jiu Jitsu, Harleen holds a 2nd Dan Black Belt and has earned numerous national and international titles, including WMKF World Silver Medallist, British Kickboxing Champion, and All Styles Champion.

Harleen now uses her platform and expertise to make sport more accessible, especially for young people from underrepresented backgrounds. Through her work at the Asian Sports Foundation, she designs and delivers inclusive sports initiatives that promote physical wellbeing, confidence, and social cohesion.

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